FAA Unveils Pre-Flight Checklist

One million drones are expected to land under Christmas trees this holiday season. Did you know that once your drone takes flight you become a pilot?

"Under the law, your drone is an aircraft," notes a recently released statement from the FAA. "When you fly your drone anywhere in the nation's airspace, you automatically become part of the U.S. aviation system."

In an effort to be proactive, the FAA has developed a safety checklist to ensure you fly safe. 

1. Fly below 400 feet.
2. Fly within visual line of sight.
3. Know FAA airspace requirements (faa.gov/go/uastfr).
4. Never fly over a group of people.
5. Don't fly within five miles of an airport without first contacting air. traffic control and airport authorities.
6. Never fly near emergency response efforts like fires.
7. Never fly near other aircraft.
8. Never fly under the influence.

While your newly acquired drone may not be a Cessna or a 747, remember that you are the pilot of your device and are responsible for its safe operation. 

Learn more at knowbeforeyoufly.org.